projectlab

Virgin Money

Projectlab conquered a host of challenges to deliver this BCO Award winning scheme for Virgin Money, transforming a listed building in the heart of Edinburgh’s financial district to create a world class corporate HQ for a new era of banking.

Size32, 500 sq ft

Time16 weeks

ServicesProject ManagementContract Administration

AwardNational BCO Award: Best Refurbished / Recycled Workplace

The Friends Garden

Spacelab worked with multi award-winning gardener Andy Sturgeon to create a calm, green oasis on the roof of Great Ormond Street hospital for staff, which capitalises on fantastic views across London, and doubles up as a venue for functions.

The distinction between inside and outside is blurred, with folding sliding doors that peel back and internal flooring that extends out on to the terrace. Planting is used to create semi-private areas outside, and raised platforms of grass feature timber borders that double up as seating. The rooftop garden was named NHS Best External Space at the Building Better Healthcare Awards in 2008.

Size2,500sqft

Time12 weeks

ServicesProject Management

The Orangery

Great Ormond Street Hospital wanted to create a ‘conservatory type building’ for eating and drinking that offered visitors a tranquil escape, so Spacelab transformed an unused and unloved roof area into a striking, sculptural pavilion in timber and glass, far removed from the usual hospital canteen experience.

Finger-like sections of the zinc-clad roof wrap around the space, and sections of glass between them create a dynamic play of light and shadow inside. It won a RIBA Award in 2005, and in the same year was shortlisted for the prestigious Stephen Lawrence Award, and mid-listed for Britain’s top architectural accolade, the Stirling Prize.

Size1,800sqft

Time32 weeks

ServicesProject Management

Westlake House

Built on open countryside near Peterborough, this house makes the most of its unique setting, while fitting the needs of its owners into a small amount of space. The south-facing façade is almost entirely glazed, and internal windows mean that all parts of the house benefit from natural light and views.

The construction was simple and cost-effective to match the owners’ needs, and the building is clad with timber to blend sensitively with its surroundings. We also extended the house later to accommodate the owners’ growing family, linking it with a glass corridor. The house won a RIBA Design Award in 2003, and was featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs programme.